Prokofiev’s seventh symphony and its two еndings: A study of 'imposed' revisions

Why does a composer resort to changing any one of his compositions? Under what circumstances does the creative output need to be re-evaluated and perhaps reconsidered? Prokofiev’s final Seventh Symphony presents two endings different in mood and character, one subtler and the other more vivid. This paper examines the background behind the appearance of the alternative ending - most specifically an extended coda, which appeared as an indication of a conformist stance on Prokofiev’s part, an attempt to appease the regime and probably obtain the Stalin Prize, so essential to him.